Clearing up 5 common misconceptions

Beaujolais Nouveau comes out in just over three weeks, allowing just enough time to swat up on these fun Beaujolais facts.

03.11.2014

Think you know everything about Beaujolais Nouveau?

(AFP) On the third Thursday of each November (which falls on the 20th this year), oenophiles around the globe turn their attention to one wine: Beaujolais Nouveau. Despite all the enthusiasm, this primeur wine has plenty of detractors, who pipe up every year to criticize its quality. Everyone's entitled to an opinion, but when it comes to Beaujolais Nouveau, many consumers are simply clinging to preconceived notions. Here are five often ignored facts about this distinctive beverage.

There is more than one Beaujolais Nouveau

All the marketing slogans about the arrival of "the" Beaujolais Nouveau actually contain a misnomer. Because it isn't just one wine that goes on sale on the third Thursday in November. The term Beaujolais Nouveau refers to wines from two appellations d'origine contrôlée (AOCs), Beaujolais and Beaujolais Villages, each of which is home to multiple wineries. So there is plenty of variety. In fact, Beaujolais Nouveau even exists in a rosé version.

Beaujolais Nouveau isn't the only wine produced in the Beaujolais region

The producers of the Beaujolais and Beaujolais Villages AOCs don't focus all their efforts on young wine, and oenophiles can savor the region's vintages throughout the year. Capable of producing wines with excellent aging potential, the Beaujolais region covers a total of 16,572 hectares (41,000 acres) and includes 10 crus. Some of the most famous among them are Saint-Amour, Juliénas, Morgon, Brouilly and Chiroubles.

Beaujolais Nouveau offers a range of tasting notes

The primeur wine's aromatic palette is not limited to the banana and strawberry notes described by so many tasters. Made from grapes grown across several dozen acres, Beaujolais Nouveau reflects various characteristics picked up from different terroirs. The individual choices made by different winemakers also bring a unique touch to each batch.

Beaujolais Nouveau doesn't have to be consumed immediately

Of course, Beaujolais Nouveau is not suitable for aging. But it is perfectly acceptable to save some to drink at holiday parties in December and January. In fact, wine lovers who set aside preconceived notions can even enjoy Beaujolais Nouveau through the spring. Just be sure to consume it within six months.

Beaujolais Nouveau can be paired with meals

Whether due to tradition or to the festive nature of its annual launch, Beaujolais Nouveau is served primarily as an aperitif or quaffed at parties with hors d'oeuvres. But the young wine can also be paired with cuisine. For the best results, serve it with dishes from the same region: namely the sausages and cured meats that are among the specialties of Lyon.